Thousands rally for 'Hobbit' to stay in NZ

More than 4,000 people have rallied in various cities in New Zealand, with hopes of keeping the filming of The Hobbit in the country.

The two-movie prequel to the Lord of the Rings trilogy has been officially greenlit, but has yet to confirm its filming locations. The previous three J.R.R. Tolkien movies directed by Peter Jackson were filmed in New Zealand.

However an industrial row has complicated the chances of production staying in the country.

Jackson refuted claims made by the Screen Actors Guild and NZ Actors Equity that the film does not meet workers' pay conditions, and although the organisations' planned boycott was called off, Jackson may still choose to film elsewhere

Jackson has argued that the dispute arose because of lobbying by the Australian Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA). The director described the group as a "destructive organization" at the rallies, reports The Herald Sun.

Jackson, Warner Bros executives and Prime Minister John Key will meet to discuss the issue later today. Rally co-ordinator Mark Harrison said: "We will do anything we can to make this film happen in New Zealand."